Easy Chicken Marsala
This Easy Chicken Marsala recipe is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of Italian-American cuisine right to your table. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this 30-minute meal offers juicy, pan-fried chicken in a rich and creamy wine and mushroom sauce. With its simple preparation and outstanding taste, you’ll want to make this dish again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of marsala wine, garlic, and cremini mushrooms creates a depth of flavor that is irresistible.
- Versatile Dish: Serve it over pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy sauce and tender chicken, this recipe is sure to impress family and guests alike.
- Easy to Master: Even novice cooks can follow this straightforward recipe with confidence.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delicious Easy Chicken Marsala, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A good skillet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly cooked chicken.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing through chicken breasts easier and safer.
- Cutting board: Protects your countertops while providing a stable surface for prep work.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 2 large chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Flour (for dredging)
For the Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced fairly thin)
- 1 large clove garlic (minced)
- 3/4 cup marsala wine (see note)
- 1/2 cup heavy/whipping cream
How to Make Easy Chicken Marsala
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise to create 4 thinner cutlets.
- Season each piece with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Coat each cutlet lightly in flour.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add the chicken cutlets to the pan.
- Sear each side for 4–5 minutes until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside; it will finish cooking later in the sauce.
Step 3: Sauté the Mushrooms
- Add the remaining butter to the skillet along with the sliced mushrooms.
- Cook for 3–5 minutes while stirring occasionally until browned.
Step 4: Add Garlic and Wine
- Stir in minced garlic and pour in marsala wine.
- Let it bubble for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 5: Finish with Cream and Chicken
- Pour in heavy cream and stir well.
- Return the chicken back into the skillet.
- Cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until fully cooked through and sauce thickens slightly.
- Season with extra salt & pepper if needed. Optionally garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade Easy Chicken Marsala!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Marsala
Serving Easy Chicken Marsala can elevate your dining experience. This dish pairs beautifully with various sides and garnishes that complement its rich flavors.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley – Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a vibrant color and freshness to the dish.
- Thyme Sprigs – A few sprigs of thyme can enhance the aroma and flavor, making the dish even more enticing.
With Pasta
- Fettuccine – Pairing chicken marsala with fettuccine creates a delightful combination. Simply toss cooked pasta in the sauce for added creaminess.
- Linguine – Linguine’s flat shape allows it to hold onto the sauce well, making every bite flavorful.
With Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and balances the richness of the marsala sauce.
- Roasted Asparagus – The earthy flavor of roasted asparagus complements the chicken beautifully.
With Bread
- Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
- Crusty Baguette – A slice of baguette can add texture and is ideal for dipping into the creamy sauce.
How to Perfect Easy Chicken Marsala
To make your Easy Chicken Marsala truly exceptional, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.
- Use Quality Wine – Select a good-quality marsala wine for deeper flavor. Cooking wine often lacks richness.
- Thinly Slice Mushrooms – Slicing mushrooms thin ensures they cook evenly and absorb maximum flavor from the sauce.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cooking chicken in batches prevents steaming, allowing for that perfect golden crust.
- Let It Rest – Allowing cooked chicken to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
- Adjust Creaminess – Feel free to adjust the amount of cream based on your preference for richness in your sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Marsala
Pairing sides with Easy Chicken Marsala can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this classic dish nicely.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes provide a comforting base that soaks up the flavorful sauce.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich marsala.
- Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf serves as an excellent side, capturing every drop of savory sauce.
- Green Beans Almondine – Tender green beans topped with toasted almonds offer a crunchy texture alongside smooth chicken marsala.
- Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with veggies provides a healthy, nutritious option that pairs well with the creaminess of the main dish.
- Baked Zucchini Fries – Crispy zucchini fries add a fun twist and are great for dipping into any remaining sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking Easy Chicken Marsala can be a breeze, but common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the flour dredging: Not coating the chicken in flour can prevent a nice crust from forming. Always dredge your chicken for that perfect texture.
- Overcrowding the pan: Placing too much chicken in the skillet at once can lower the temperature and result in steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Neglecting to season: Forgetting to season your chicken can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use salt, pepper, and garlic powder generously.
- Using low-quality marsala wine: A poor-quality wine can affect the sauce’s flavor. Choose a good marsala wine for a richer taste.
- Not letting the sauce reduce: Rushing through the sauce-making process may leave it watery. Allow it to simmer until thickened for better consistency.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Easy Chicken Marsala in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Chicken Marsala
- You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months.
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Reheating Easy Chicken Marsala
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth as needed, stirring until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Easy Chicken Marsala.
What is Easy Chicken Marsala?
Easy Chicken Marsala is a delightful dish featuring pan-fried chicken coated in a creamy mushroom and marsala wine sauce, perfect for any dinner table.
Can I make Easy Chicken Marsala without cream?
Yes! You can use chicken broth or coconut milk as substitutes for cream if you want a lighter version of this dish.
What side dishes go well with Easy Chicken Marsala?
Pair it with pasta, rice, or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal that complements the flavors of this delicious dish.
How do I store leftovers of Easy Chicken Marsala?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Marsala recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or add vegetables like spinach for an extra nutritional boost. Whether served on special occasions or during busy weeknights, it’s sure to bring joy and comfort to your table. Give it a try!
Easy Chicken Marsala
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Easy Chicken Marsala is a quick and satisfying dish that brings the comfort of Italian-American cuisine to your table in just 30 minutes. This recipe features tender, pan-fried chicken breasts enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce made with marsala wine and sautéed cremini mushrooms. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this dish is easy to master and sure to impress family and friends alike. With its balanced flavors and simple preparation, Easy Chicken Marsala is destined to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- Salt & pepper
- Garlic powder
- Flour (for dredging)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (sliced fairly thin)
- 1 large clove garlic (minced)
- 3/4 cup marsala wine
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts in half lengthwise, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then dredge in flour.
- Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken cutlets for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the skillet.
- Add remaining butter and sliced mushrooms to the skillet; sauté until browned (3–5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic and pour in marsala wine, simmering for 2–3 minutes.
- Add heavy cream, return chicken to the skillet, and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until fully cooked through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken cutlet with sauce (200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
